Rural Poverty and Deprivation in India: A Multidimensional Analysis
Author : Dr. Sunil Vyankatesh Samag
Abstract :
Rural poverty in India is a multidimensional challenge, deeply rooted in socio-economic, structural, and environmental factors. Despite significant policy interventions, 27.5% of the rural population continues to experience multidimensional poverty (NITI Aayog, 2021). This study examines the extent, causes, and implications of rural poverty in India, highlighting the limitations of conventional income-based measures and emphasizing a broader framework that includes education, health, and access to basic services. It evaluates the role of government programs such as MGNREGA, PM-KISAN, and NRLM in alleviating poverty while identifying key gaps in implementation and outreach. Additionally, the study analyses agricultural productivity, rural employment, financial inclusion, and climate change impacts, all of which significantly influence poverty levels. The research also explores the contributions of NGOs and international organizations, showcasing their role in improving livelihoods, healthcare, education, and sustainable farming practices. Findings suggest that while poverty rates have declined, challenges such as regional disparities, financial instability, and low human capital development persist. The paper concludes that a more integrated approach, combining policy innovation, technology-driven solutions, financial empowerment, and environmental resilience, is essential to achieving sustainable poverty reduction in rural India.
Keywords :
Rural poverty, multidimensional poverty, economic disparity, agricultural productivity, financial inclusion, social welfare programs, rural employment, climate change, NGOs, sustainable development.
